The decision by the United States to withdraw from dozens of international organizations has drawn sharp criticism and major global attention. According to foreign policy expert Dr. Darmansjah Djumala, this shift could benefit China’s influence on the world stage, especially in long‑term multilateral decision‑making. Djumala’s analysis highlights how changes in U.S. engagement may reshape global governance dynamics and create new power opportunities for other nations.
In early January 2026, U.S. President Donald Trump signed a Presidential Memorandum directing federal agencies to withdraw from 66 international organizations. This includes 31 United Nations (UN) entities and 35 non‑UN bodies, covering areas such as climate action, labor standards, migration, and sustainable development.
Why the US Is Withdrawing and What It Means
According to the U.S. government, many of these international organizations no longer serve American national interests, security, or economic prosperity. Washington has claimed that the missions of some bodies conflict with U.S. policy goals or produce burdensome financial commitments. Critics argue that this move represents a growing trend toward unilateralism and nationalism in U.S. foreign policy.
Dr. Djumala, who serves as an expert at Indonesia’s Pancasila Ideology Development Agency (BPIP), notes that although China will not immediately replace U.S. leadership in global forums, the power vacuum left by Washington could benefit Beijing in the long run. China’s growing diplomatic engagement and strategic investments give it leverage that other actors may find hard to match.
The Role of Global South and Multilateral Forums
One reason China could benefit from U.S. withdrawal is its expanding influence among Global South countries. Many developing nations depend on international institutions for technical support, development funding, and policy guidance on issues like climate change, food security, and public health.
With reduced U.S. participation, these countries may increasingly view China as a more pragmatic and reliable partner, especially when Chinese support comes with fewer political conditions. This trend could strengthen China’s position in shaping multilateral consensus and policy outcomes in global forums.
Experts also note that Beijing has publicly reaffirmed its commitment to multilateralism and support for institutions like the United Nations, emphasizing the value of cooperative global governance. China’s foreign ministry has stated that it will continue to back the central role of the UN and work with international partners to build a fairer global system — a message aimed at contrasting the U.S. retreat.
Potential Challenges for Multilateralism and US Leadership
The U.S. pullout has raised concerns among global governance advocates about the future of multilateral cooperation. Analysts worry that without strong U.S. leadership and financial contributions, institutions may face funding shortages and weakened political influence. Many of the organizations targeted handle critical issues like global health, human rights, and climate change, where coordinated international action is essential.
China’s rise in these spaces does not come without controversy. Some critics argue that Beijing’s approach may emphasize its geopolitical interests and strategic partnerships at the expense of broader global norms — particularly in areas like human rights. Nevertheless, the shift clearly signals a reshaping of international power structures that could endure for decades.
Dr. Darmansjah Djumala’s assessment suggests that the United States’ exit from multiple international organizations could inadvertently benefit China’s global influence, especially in diplomatic forums where consensus is forged. While the U.S. may prioritize national interests and policy independence, its reduced engagement leaves room for other powers to fill the gap. As China continues to assert its role,
